North West Coast Native Basket, possibly Mono, which is more inland or Klamath on the west coast. This basket is for Individual Food Serving. Possibly a food basket made for a young person. It fits nicely in the hand and is discolored from use. Dating from the late 19th century or early 20th century, I acquired this basket on the North Coast of California in Humboldt County. I don't know its origin but I suspect it could be any of the tribes from the Northwest, Mono, Klamath, or Modoc. It is woven from Tule reed which is found in marshy areas of California and Oregon. Tule reed/grass was also used for shelters and mats.

It measures, in its current shape as a slight oval, as 4 1/2 by 3 3/4. It measures 2 1/2" tall.

It shows signs of use, is soiled and browned from age and has no splits. It is dusty from display but I didn't dust or clean it in any way.